US President Donald Trump has expressed his readiness to sign a bill on tough economic restrictions against Russia.
Trump Ready for Tough Sanctions Against Russia
At the same time, the administration insists that the president has the sole authority to decide on the future of sanctions.
Politico reports this, citing a high-ranking White House official.
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According to him, the administration generally supports the initiative of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, but demands that the president's right to make final decisions on foreign policy issues, in particular on granting exceptions to sanctions, be enshrined in law.
The current version of the document allows the president to postpone for 180 days the introduction of a 500 percent tariff on energy imports from Russia.
Graham agreed to make changes to allow another extension with congressional approval. But the Trump team wants to avoid any legislative influence on these processes.
An administration official stressed that the current version of the bill allows Congress to block the president's decision with a resolution, which is considered unacceptable interference in foreign policy.
This desire for complete control over sanctions policy is also explained by Trump’s recent disappointment with Putin’s actions, in particular the Russian side’s unwillingness to make concessions on the issue of ending the war in Ukraine.
One White House adviser believes Putin put Trump in an awkward position by not responding to the US president's diplomatic efforts.
Senators back Trump, but await final document
While Senator John Thune noted progress in negotiations with the White House, no final decision has been made. Negotiations are ongoing, particularly regarding the scope of the head of state's powers in the new law.
The White House expects the final version of the bill to be tailored to the president's position. This could be a departure from the approach that was in place during Trump's first term, when Congress had more leverage over sanctions against Russia.
According to sources, the administration believes it is necessary to maintain flexibility so as not to close the door to a potential breakthrough in negotiations with Putin. Lindsey Graham noted that the president supports the legislative initiative and will receive the powers he expects.
Despite the bill's broad support from more than 80 senators, some Republicans are still waiting for a clear position from Trump.
Senator Josh Gawley, in particular, wants to hear it in person. Some of his colleagues believe Trump is the only figure capable of moving the situation from a dead point with both Moscow and Kiev.
Trump has publicly changed his tone toward the Kremlin in recent days after the new massive shelling of Ukraine, calling Putin's actions “complete nonsense” and saying he is seriously considering Graham's sanctions document.
The President also promised the Russian leader a “surprise.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson backed the initiative, saying the United States must send a clear message to Russia after it refused to engage in serious peace talks.
